Representative Victoria Spartz, a Republican from Indiana and a Ukrainian immigrant, has stirred controversy with her recent comments regarding Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia. In an interview with The Telegraph, Spartz expressed skepticism about Ukraine’s ability to retain territory taken back from Russia, stating, "I just don’t see how they can be positioned to demand to keep the land. If they would be winning the war, that will be very different."
Spartz, who emigrated from Ukraine in 2000, has been known for her support of U.S. assistance to Ukraine. However, she has recently shifted her stance, voting against a significant $61 billion aid package last year. She has also endorsed former President Donald Trump’s approach to peace negotiations with Russia, suggesting that the current situation requires a different strategy.
Her comments have drawn sharp criticism from Ukrainian officials and citizens alike. Yevheniia Kravchuk, a member of the Ukrainian Parliament, responded on social media, calling Spartz’s remarks an "insult to a nation fighting for its survival." Kravchuk emphasized that Ukrainians are capable of deciding their own future and do not need guidance on leadership or territorial concessions.
Others have echoed this sentiment. Oleksiy Sorokin, a prominent journalist in Ukraine, criticized Spartz for using her background to dictate terms to Ukrainians. He expressed disbelief at her comments, stating that they show a disconnect from the realities faced by those living in Ukraine during the war.
Spartz’s remarks come at a time when Ukraine is facing significant challenges, and her call for a change in leadership in Ukraine has added fuel to the fire. She warned that if President Volodymyr Zelensky is re-elected, Ukraine could lose more territory. This has further alienated her from many in her home country, who feel her perspective is out of touch with the current struggle for sovereignty.
As the conflict continues, the debate over foreign support and the direction of Ukraine’s leadership remains heated. Spartz’s comments reflect a growing divide in opinions on how best to approach the situation, both in the U.S. and abroad.